What’s Included in the GAF Roofing System?

What’s Included in the GAF Roofing System?

by | Jun 2, 2021 | West Michigan Roofing Blog

In the world of roofing, GAF products are favored by roofing companies and homeowners alike, not only because of their high quality performance, but also the fact that they’re backed by the most comprehensive warranties in the roofing industry. What could possibly be better? A whole system of GAF roofing materials, that’s what! 

The GAF Roofing System is a combination of GAF products that work together to keep your home safe and protect it from the elements. Here’s a closer look at all the components you get when you go with the lifetime roofing system from GAF:

GAF Roofing System Components

Leak Barrier

The worst enemy of any roof is a leak! Luckily, the GAF Leak Barrier provides an extra layer of protection between the roof deck and shingles to help prevent leaks caused by wind-driven rain and ice dams.

Roof Deck Protection

This specialized underlayment provides added protection against moisture trying its best to infiltrate your roof deck and cause damage to your roof and home. Not today, moisture!

Starter Strip Shingles

Besides protection from rain and stormy weather, your roof needs protection from the wind to avoid shingle blow-off. With their crazy-strong adhesive, GAF starter strips ensure shingles stay securely and properly in place.

Lifetime Shingles

Available in a variety of colors and styles to fit the needs of any home, these GAF high quality shingles maximize the performance and lifespan of your roof — no wonder they’re North America’s number one choice!

Cobra Attic Ventilation

A top-notch ventilation system like this one prevents moisture from building up in your attic and regulates heat, making for a more energy- and cost-efficient roof. You protect your house and the cash in your pocket!

Ridge Cap Shingles

These special shingles offer the finishing touches on your roof, adding beauty and dimension along with even more protection against leaks across especially vulnerable ridges.

Industry-Leading Warranties

When you choose the GAF roofing system, you use enough GAF products to automatically qualify for the GAF exclusive Lifetime Limited Warranty, offering non-prorated coverage for a minimum of 10 years. Upgrade to a System Plus, Silver Pledge, or Golden Pledge warranty, and you’ll get services from a certified GAF roofing company too!

Talk about a bundle of joy! The complete GAF roofing system with its combination of high quality GAF products gives you more than unbeatable protection, it gives you peace of mind. In short: GAF is great.

Where Can You Find the GAF Roofing System? 

There’s good reason why homeowners and roofers love GAF products: they’re reliable, high quality, and provide the best warranties on the market, which is exactly why you should give Werner Roofing a call!

We’re proud to offer our customers the GAF Roofing System along with the highest level GAF warranty, the Golden Pledge. Our roofers are Master Elite certified installers of GAF products, and can ensure you get the best GAF has to offer for your home. Want to learn more? Contact us online or by dialing 616-844-5382 today!

roofing contractor

OUR FREE ROOF INSPECTION

How do you know when it’s time for a new roof? The only way to be sure of your residential roof’s current condition is to have a licensed professional personally inspect it. Werner Roofing is proud to offer free roof inspections for every client, so you can be sure of your roof’s condition. Every Werner Roofing inspection comes complete with our promise: “We won’t recommend or sell a roof replacement unless it’s necessary.” 

SCHEDULE A PROFESSIONAL INSPECTION
Is it Time to Replace Your Roof?

Is it Time to Replace Your Roof?

by | Feb 5, 2021 | Roof Replacement

Just as with other aspects of your house, your roof needs regular maintenance to keep it in tip-top shape so it can do its job of keeping you safe and warm. There comes a point, however, when the amount and cost of roof repairs might make you start to wonder if it’s time to replace your roof, not just fix or maintain it. Ah, but how exactly do you know for sure when your roof is ready to retire? Well, the best way is to keep your eye out for these tell-tale signs a new roof should be in your near future.

Signs it is Time for a Roof Replacement

Leaks & Streaks

Before you head outside to inspect your roof, head up into your attic. Is there a musty smell? Do you see any streaks of light coming through the boards overhead? What about saggy areas or stains from water damage? All of these are indicators that you’ve got some leaking going on, and that’s a sure sign it’s time to consider putting a new roof over your heads. If you put it off too long, you’ll not only be breaking out the buckets every time it rains but also the big bucks for high energy bills!

Old Age 

Unfortunately, like all of us, a roof can start showing its age over time. Metal roofs have a pretty long lifespan, not needing to be replaced for as many as 50 years. Cedar shakes last around 30 years. The most common type of roof, however, has asphalt shingles which typically last about 15-25 years. If new shingles were installed over existing ones, then make that closer to 20. 

If you’re not sure when your roof was installed, don’t worry — you now have a good excuse to spy on your neighbors! More than likely, the houses in your neighborhood were all built around the same time, so if your neighbors start replacing their roofs, it’s probably time for you to do the same. 

Sad Shingles

Shingles that have all their granules intact and lay flat are happy and healthy. Do yours look sad? Check for shingles that are buckled, curled, cracked, sagging, worn, or even missing. Look for any signs of decay, as well as moss which is a sign moisture is trapped beneath the shingles and that means rotting can occur. 

Be sure to examine weather damage hot spots, too, like valleys (the areas where the different slopes of your roof connect) and chimney flashings (the area that surrounds the base of your chimney where it meets your roof). 

After all that investigating, if you have more sad shingles than happy, your roof is definitely nearing the end of its life cycle.

Clogged Gutters

Another way of knowing your roof is ready to be replaced is by checking your gutters. If they are full of  shingle particles, pieces, granules, and debris, that means your shingles are deteriorating and, well, so is your roof! 

Constant Repairs

If repairs are never-ending, never enough, and becoming more costly than it would be to just get a new roof, investing in replacing your roof makes more financial sense than to continue trying to patch up the problems. 

Is it Time to Replace Your Roof?

If you’re still not sure whether it’s time to replace your roof, or you would prefer to leave the inspection to the professionals (good call!), you’re in luck. At Werner Roofing, we’re happy to come out, free of charge, to determine the condition of your roof and help you decide what the best option is for your home. Call or visit us today to schedule a free roof inspection or to get a free quote. Our team is always happy to help!

roofing contractor

OUR FREE ROOF INSPECTION

How do you know when it’s time for a new roof? The only way to be sure of your residential roof’s current condition is to have a licensed professional personally inspect it. Werner Roofing is proud to offer free roof inspections for every client, so you can be sure of your roof’s condition. Every Werner Roofing inspection comes complete with our promise: “We won’t recommend or sell a roof replacement unless it’s necessary.” 

SCHEDULE A PROFESSIONAL INSPECTION
How Energy Efficient is Your Roof?

How Energy Efficient is Your Roof?

by | Jan 21, 2021 | Energy Efficient Roofing

It takes a lot of energy to power, heat, and cool our homes. If you care about saving energy for the environment or for your monthly utility bills, you might be looking for ways to make your home more efficient. Is your roof helping you reach your efficiency goals? Let’s evaluate how energy efficient your roof is, and some things you can do to improve your roof’s energy savings.

How Energy Efficient is Your Roof?

When considering energy efficiency as it relates to your roof, there are several factors that can affect how your roof retains or releases energy. Looking at these five factors, we can determine if you have an energy efficient roof.

Heat Gain

Roofs with a high heat gain are generally less efficient than those with a low heat gain. This is because they absorb and retain heat during the summer, making it more difficult and costly to keep your home cool. However, if you live in a place that is always cold, heat gain can improve your home’s efficiency because it makes your heating more effective.

Reflectivity 

Reflectivity has to do with how much of the sun’s light and heat is reflected off your roof. Your roof’s color and materials play major roles in determining its reflectivity. Lighter colored roofs will be more reflective and absorb less heat, making them more efficient than darker roofs which absorb and trap heat.

Roofing Materials 

Some roofing materials are naturally more efficient than others. For example, metal roofs are lighter and more durable than asphalt shingle roofs and also put less stress on your home’s structure. As an added bonus, when they do eventually need to be replaced, metal roofs are completely recyclable.

Durability 

Durability can determine energy efficient roofs because roofs that last longer are more efficient. Roofs that constantly need repairs or a short lifespan before replacement are less efficient and end up costing more than the investment of a highly durable roof.

Insulation & Ventilation

Insulation and ventilation can be hugely important for an energy efficient roof. Insulation helps your home retain heat during cooler months. Ventilation helps keep your home cool in the warmer months. Both can help protect your roof from roof damage such as ice dams, condensation, and leaks.

Energy Efficient Roof Types

The most energy efficient roof types are metal roofs, tile roofs, and some asphalt shingle roofs. These roofs use the factors we just discussed to conserve energy and protect your home.

Energy Efficient Metal Roofs

Metal roofs are one of the most durable roofing types available. When properly installed, they can last from 50-70 years before needing to be replaced. They are also very low maintenance compared to other roofing types.

Metal roofing makes use of its reflective properties to limit heat gain during the warm months. When combined with proper insulation, it can significantly reduce costs to heat and cool a home year-round.

Energy Efficient Tile Roofs

Tile roofs’ specialty is insulation, which keeps them cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. Although more of an investment than metal roofing or asphalt shingles, tiles have an incredibly long lifespan, which adds to their energy efficiency savings.

Energy Efficient Asphalt Roofs

Some asphalt shingle roofs can improve your home’s energy efficiency. Asphalt shingles developed with additives to reduce heat absorption can help counteract the typical heat gain associated with asphalt roofs. Asphalt roofs are also well-known for being great insulators, protecting your home from the elements and fluctuating temperatures.

Ways to Make Your Roof More Energy Efficient

If you want to boost your energy efficient roof’s capabilities, you can invest in solar roofing, manage stormwater effectively, and add insulation and ventilation. 

Install Solar Roofing

Solar roofing is a great way to increase your energy savings for your home. Solar roofing technology has greatly improved in recent years to be more efficient, protective, and attractive. It can blend seamlessly with your roofing design and offer you an alternative way to collect energy for your home.

Manage Stormwater 

Managing stormwater involves using gutters effectively to direct stormwater away from your roof where it could inhibit your roof’s energy efficiency. Or, you might install a system to collect stormwater and use it to irrigate your landscaping or garden.

Converting your roof into a green roof is another great way to make your roof more energy efficient, utilize stormwater, and provide excellent insulation for your home. Although green roofs require a bit of maintenance, the environmental and economical payoffs may help offset the work.

Add Insulation & Ventilation

Proper insulation and ventilation is key to maintaining an energy efficient roof. If you want to boost your home’s efficiency, make sure your roof is properly ventilated in all the right places, and that your attic is securely insulated to prevent heat loss or roof damage.

Having an energy efficient roof is more than just the bells and whistles of solar panels and turbines. It also comes down the little things like managing your home’s reflectivity and heat gain to save a few dollars on heating and cooling each month. 

If you’re interested in a more energy efficient roof, get in touch with Werner Roofing. Whether you’re looking for solar roofing, interested in a new metal roof, or just looking to improve your existing roof’s efficiency, we can make sure your roof is environmentally sound and save you money on your energy bills.

roofing contractor

OUR FREE ROOF INSPECTION

How do you know when it’s time for a new roof? The only way to be sure of your residential roof’s current condition is to have a licensed professional personally inspect it. Werner Roofing is proud to offer free roof inspections for every client, so you can be sure of your roof’s condition. Every Werner Roofing inspection comes complete with our promise: “We won’t recommend or sell a roof replacement unless it’s necessary.” 

SCHEDULE A PROFESSIONAL INSPECTION
What to do About Winter Roof Leaks?

What to do About Winter Roof Leaks?

by | Jan 15, 2021 | Roof Maintenance, Roof Repair

So it’s winter, and your roof is leaking. What do you do? While there may be some repairs that have to wait until spring, some winter roof leaks need to be repaired as soon as possible.

Here are some common problems that could be causing a winter roof leak and what to do about it.

Causes of Winter Roof Leaks

Winter roof leaks can be a serious problem. A few of the common culprits are ice dams, clogged gutters, condensation, and damaged shingles.

Ice Dams

Ice dams occur when snow melts and travels down the slope of your roof, then cools and refreezes at the eaves, creating thick ridges of ice. These ridges block water and snow from moving off your roof, which then refreeze as a new layer. Eventually, water can travel backwards underneath your roof’s shingles, where it can enter your home as a leak. If ice dams aren’t removed, they can cause serious damage to your roof and home’s structure.

Clogged Gutters

If your gutters become blocked with ice, leaves, or dirt, then they can’t effectively drain water, ice, and snow away from your roof. Similar to ice dams, clogged gutters can cause water to back up and seep under your shingles, and cause your roof to start leaking in winter.

Attic Condensation

When warm, humid air from your home rises in the winter, it reaches the attic and cools, creating condensation. If too much condensation forms, it can have serious consequences for the health of your roof and even cause winter roof leaks. Excess water in your attic from condensation can also cause mildew, mold, or rot.

Damaged Shingles

Cracked, damaged or missing shingles can also be a cause of winter roof leaks. If your roof was damaged in a storm due to high winds, hail, or a falling tree branch, it could have removed shingles and left your roof deck exposed to water. For this reason, it’s important to inspect your roof after a storm, and make sure the shingles are secure before winter weather sets in.

What to Do if Your Roof is Leaking in Winter

If you notice your roof leaking in winter, what can you do? The key is to identify the problem early, then call a professional to repair it, or offer you a temporary solution and schedule the repair for spring.

Catch Winter Roof Leaks Early

The key to resolving problems with your roof is identifying them quickly, before they cause more damage. In winter, it’s especially important to spot leaks early. Signs of winter roof leaks include water stains on interior or exterior walls, water dripping from the ceiling or through ventilating fans, and condensation on skylights. These are all indicators that something is going on with your roof, causing it to leak or become susceptible to leaks. 

Call a Professional

If you notice any sign your roof is leaking in winter, it’s best to call a professional roofer to inspect the damage and recommend the best course of action. If the fix involves working on your roof, serious repairs will likely have to wait until spring, when it’s safer for the roofer and your roof. 

Find a Temporary Solution

Your roofer may be able to suggest a short term solution or perform a temporary repair until they can return with a crew to fix the problem for good. For example, ice dams might indicate that your roof needs additional ventilation and insulation to prevent recurring leaks. While they may not be able to get onto your roof until spring, they can remove existing ice dams and use fans to help regulate the temperature in your attic.

Have you discovered a leak in your roof this winter? Don’t worry — Werner Roofing can help. Give us a call to talk to one of our roofing experts today.

roofing contractor

OUR FREE ROOF INSPECTION

How do you know when it’s time for a new roof? The only way to be sure of your residential roof’s current condition is to have a licensed professional personally inspect it. Werner Roofing is proud to offer free roof inspections for every client, so you can be sure of your roof’s condition. Every Werner Roofing inspection comes complete with our promise: “We won’t recommend or sell a roof replacement unless it’s necessary.” 

SCHEDULE A PROFESSIONAL INSPECTION
Your Complete Guide to GAF Roofing Shingles

Your Complete Guide to GAF Roofing Shingles

by | Jan 12, 2021 | Roof Maintenance, West Michigan Roofing Blog

GAF offers a number of industry-leading shingle options for every homeowner. From their award-winning Timberline roofing shingles to their affordable 3-tab shingles, let’s take a look at the lineup in our guide to GAF roofing shingles.

Guide to GAF Roofing Shingles

Depending on your style and budget, GAF offers the best roofing shingles in the industry. Their best selling products include the high-performance Timberline roofing shingles, the premium Designer roofing shingles, and the economical 3-tab roofing shingles.

GAF Timberline Roofing Shingles

GAF’s Timberline series of roofing shingles are architectural shingles that outperform the competition in durability, protection, and style. Made with multiple layers of durable asphalt material, these shingles are made to balance the newest in roofing technology with a classic dimensional look and feel — at a practical price for the average homeowner.

GAF Designer Roofing Shingles

GAF’s Designer shingles are a premium option for those homeowners looking for the highest quality protective shingle with the added aesthetic features of a multidimensional, textured appearance. They are designed to mimic the old world feel of classic materials like shakes or tiles, without the weight or inefficiency. GAF’s Designer roofing shingles are the luxury roofing option that offers the best protection on the market.

GAF 3-Tab Roofing Shingles

3-tab shingles are perfect for homeowners looking for a high quality shingle option that is affordable and effective. GAF’s 3-tab shingles are made with fewer layers of asphalt than their Designer or Timberline shingles to reduce costs, but employ the same protective technology that keeps your roof, home, and family safe from the elements.

Why We Love GAF Roofing Shingles

Even when compared with other roofing material competitors, GAF products win because of their total protection system and comprehensive warranty options. 

GAF Roofing Shingles Total Protection System

Roofers love to work with GAF products because they provide everything the roofer needs for their complete project. The GAF total protection system includes leak barriers, ridge caps, deck protection, attic ventilation vents and more. All of the components in the system work together to protect your roof — which protects your roofing contractor’s work. Roofers love working with products they trust, and they trust the quality of the GAF roofing system.

GAF Roofing Shingles Warranty

When you choose to install three or more items from the GAF total protection system, you are automatically eligible for the enhanced GAF warranties, which protects your roof for 10-15 years. Also, if you have your roof installed by a GAF certified factory roofing installer, you may qualify for even better warranty coverage, which extends the length of your warranty and protects you against defects and installation errors.

GAF Master Elite Certification

To become a GAF Master Elite certified roofing installer, roofers must undergo extensive training with GAF products, have a high positive customer approval rating and commit to ongoing professional development to hone their craft. Only 3% of roofing companies are able to reach this certification level, and are capable of giving out the best service and warranties GAF can provide. 

If you’re considering using products like GAF’s Timberline roofing shingles or other products from their total protection system, choose a GAF Master Elite certified roofing installer to make sure your roof receives the highest workmanship to go with its superior materials. 

Got your eye on a specific line of GAF roofing shingles? Let us know! Werner Roofing is a GAF Master Elite certified roofing installer and has achieved President’s Club status for the 7th year in a row, which means we have exclusive installation access to all of GAFs best product lines and offer the best warranty on the market, the Golden Pledge. We’d be happy to install the GAF Shingles you love most. 

roofing contractor

OUR FREE ROOF INSPECTION

How do you know when it’s time for a new roof? The only way to be sure of your residential roof’s current condition is to have a licensed professional personally inspect it. Werner Roofing is proud to offer free roof inspections for every client, so you can be sure of your roof’s condition. Every Werner Roofing inspection comes complete with our promise: “We won’t recommend or sell a roof replacement unless it’s necessary.” 

SCHEDULE A PROFESSIONAL INSPECTION